Sunderland Accommodation Centre Supports Homeless Individuals with Pet Ownership

A Salvation Army facility in Sunderland, Swan Lodge, which provides accommodation for homeless individuals, has encouraged some of its residents to adopt rescue dogs. This centre permits people to reside with their animals, with management stating that having a pet offers “a huge boost” to an owner’s mental health. Currently, the facility houses 16 pets, including dogs, cats, and a budgie. Christine Ritchie, the manager, expressed her sentiment, stating: “I’d be heartbroken if I had to lose my dog so I couldn’t do that to any of our residents.” While many hostels providing accommodation for homeless people do not permit animals, Swan Lodge initiated its pet-friendly policy approximately 12 years ago. Ms. Ritchie elaborated on the policy’s origin: “It all began when someone turned up with a dog called Lucy and I really felt like I couldn’t turn him away.” She added that although the owner “has sadly passed away,” Lucy “still lives here with us.” Swan Lodge collaborates with various charitable organizations, such as Street Paws, which facilitates veterinary appointments, and Pawz for Thought, which supplies essential items like bedding, food, collars, and bowls. Additionally, staff members have enabled residents to foster rescue dogs. One resident described his dog, Duke, as a “lifesaver,” remarking: “It’s the company that you miss when you’ve been on your own and homeless. I suffer from depression and anxiety but having him gets me up in the morning.” Another resident, Ian, referred to his dog, Scrappy Do, as a “Godsend,” adding, “I even got him tattooed on me because I love him so much.” Ms. Ritchie noted that despite some dogs occasionally “have their moments,” they generally coexist harmoniously. She emphasized the centre’s broad acceptance of animals, stating: “We’ve had a huge range of pets: rats, snakes, parrots. If they are important to their owners, they’re welcome here.” Follow BBC North East on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram. Send your story ideas to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk.Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.